While no two accidents are exactly alike, there is a typical process of a Houston car accident claim to follow. Taking the right steps can improve your chances of success and protect your potential recovery. Even minor mistakes along the way could put your compensation in jeopardy.
The good news is that you do not have to navigate this process alone. With the help of a skilled car accident injury attorney, you could pursue compensation through civil lawsuits or insurance claims following a crash.
Before an injured party can negotiate a settlement or file a lawsuit, they will need a clear picture of how a crash happened. A thorough investigation could offer important information about who was responsible for an accident. In some cases, multiple parties could share liability.
On top of liability issues, the investigation can also help develop the value of a claim. Evidence could establish the physical, financial, and emotional losses that occur as the result of a car crash. This is a vital part of the Houston car accident claim process.
There is a limited amount of time to act following a motor vehicle collision. Part of the Houston car accident claim process is complying with the legal deadline known as the statute of limitations. In Texas, plaintiffs generally have two years from the date of the crash to file their lawsuit.
Texas is an at-fault state, meaning that injury victims have the right to sue the other driver when they are responsible for an accident. However, there are times when a motorist will also need to deal directly with their own insurance company—even if they have no intention to file a claim.
Most policies require drivers to immediately notify their insurer in the wake of an accident. This is true even for people who intend to seek compensation directly from the other driver. The failure to notify the insurer of a crash could have consequences, including the potential cancellation of the policy.
A personal injury attorney can deal with all of the insurance companies, allowing the injury victim to focus on their recovery.
One of the most important parts of the car accident claim process is seeking guidance from a skilled Houston-based attorney. There is no requirement that an injured driver hire a lawyer to help with their case, but failing to do so could have lasting consequences.
Attorneys can deal with an aggressive and resistant insurance company. This is more than just a matter of convenience, as their adjusters might take something you say and twist it to suggest you are at fault for the crash.
They can negotiate a settlement on your behalf or handle your lawsuit if those negotiations fall through. Relying on the guidance of an attorney is helpful during every step of the way.
If you suffered an injury in a collision, it is natural to wonder about the first steps towards financial compensation. Thankfully, an attorney from Schechter, Shaffer & Harris can help you follow the process of a Houston car accident claim. Reach out immediately to discuss your legal options.
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